Britain could strike a trade deal with the United States within 90 days, the Trump administration has told Nigel Farage.

Speaking to Sky News at a party hosted by the former UKIP leader in Washington DC on the eve of inauguration, the MEP insisted Donald Trump was offering a "great gift" and was willing to hold talks before Britain even left the EU.

Dismissing predictions that reaching an agreement could take a decade, Mr Farage hailed the "can-do attitude" of the incoming president's team.

He said: "The Trump incoming presidency is offering our country a gift, a great gift, not just for business, not just for trade, but actually to strengthen our hand in negotiating with the European Union."

His remarks where made at an inauguration party overlooking the White House attended by congressmen, senators and governors but not by Mr Trump himself.